Which of the following practices best helps maintain patient confidentiality?

Using passwords for electronic records is a vital practice for maintaining patient confidentiality. It ensures that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive health information, thereby protecting patient data from unauthorized exposure. Passwords serve as a first layer of security, making it difficult for outsiders or unauthorized users to gain access to electronic health records, personal medical data, and other sensitive information.

This practice is critical in healthcare settings where the risk of data breaches can have serious implications for patient privacy and trust. By implementing strong passwords and ensuring they are regularly updated and managed, healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidental or intentional data breaches.

The other options do not contribute positively to patient confidentiality. Leaving paperwork unattended creates opportunities for unauthorized individuals to view sensitive information, while discussing cases freely among colleagues can lead to inadvertent disclosures, especially in public or shared spaces. These practices can undermine the confidentiality that is critical to patient care and trust in the healthcare system.